I just thought I'd include an update on the glute strengthening program I started almost a month ago. Originally, I started researching how to strengthen my lower back but I came across a really interesting article which said that proportionally weaker gluteus muscles could contribute to lower back pain and also knee pain (both of which I have suffered from on many occasions) along with lots of other problems. Here is the link to that article:

http://functionalresistancetraining.com/articles/re-activating-and-strengthening-the-gluteal-muscles

So after reading that I scoured the internet for exercises I could try that would strengthen these muscles. I read a lot. I tried a lot. I noticed a difference after the very first day. My knee pain was gone almost immediately. My lower back pain was gone quickly too. I embarked on a quest to learn how my glutes worked, what it felt like to use them, and try to correct a long time imbalance. I practiced walking slowly, doing tai chi, and climbing stairs while engaging my gluteus muscles, I became obsessed and talked to anyone who would listen about it. I was so excited to finally have found a solution to not just one problem, but many!!

Here's my favorite of all the exercises, I do this in 3 sets of 12 or 15 twice a week:

http://www.inspiredfitstrong.com/2012/blog/the-single-leg-deadlift-why-to-do-it-and-how-to-do-it/

So check out the first article and if it sounds like you, give some glute strengthening a try. It could be life changing!